A major community effort to tackle the growing problem of drug abuse took place at the Wedela Community Hall on June 26.

Residents, community organisations, and government bodies joined forces for a high-impact awareness campaign to combat a crisis that continues to threaten health, security, and development in the area.
The Wedela Local Drug Action Committee organised the event in partnership with the Merafong City Local Municipality’s Health and Social Development Section.

The main goals of the campaign were to warn residents about the dangers of drug addiction, explain the committee’s work, and give the public immediate access to healthcare, psychological support, and social services.

A key highlight of the day focused on celebrating recovery and breaking the stigma around addiction. Occupational therapists from the Department of Health were on site to help and prepare local individuals who are ready to enter rehabilitation programmes.

Organisers hope that by highlighting these recovery journeys, more people battling addiction will feel encouraged to step forward and seek help.

The successful event relied on strong co-ordination between local authorities and community leaders.
Key figures driving the campaign included executive committee members Naledi Ramaru and Tsietsi Matlhabe, alongside municipal champion Tshepo Maloisane.

They worked alongside dedicated counselors to manage the busy event and provide immediate support to the many residents who attended.

This local initiative directly supports South Africa’s National Drug Master Plan and national laws which require local councils to run grassroots substance abuse prevention programmes.

A wide range of groups took part to make the day a success, including the Department of Employment and Labour, the Independent Electoral Commission, the Wedela Clinic, and the Merafong Sub-district Health team.

They were joined by community organisations such as Intsika Yezwe Social Services, Are Ageng Socials, and Bambisandla Sam.